Is Cher Native American?
Cherilyn Sarkisian, known professionally as Cher, is an American singer, actress, and television personality. Her career has spanned over five decades, during which she has won numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Grammy Award, and three Golden Globe Awards. Given her fame and long career, many individuals have questioned Cher’s Native American heritage. So, let’s delve into the complexities surrounding this inquiry and uncover the truth behind Cher’s lineage.
Cher’s maternal grandmother, Georgia Holt, was of Armenian and German descent. Her maternal grandfather, John Sarkisian, was an Armenian-American. Cher’s father, John Sarkisian Sr., was also of Armenian and German descent. However, it is believed that his paternal grandmother, Catherine Kouyoumjian, was Cherokee. This would make Cher one-eighth Cherokee, but it has not been confirmed.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding her exact lineage, Cher has publicly identified as Native American on multiple occasions. She has spoken about her pride in her heritage and has used her platform to raise awareness about Native American issues. In 1999, she was awarded the Indian of the Year Award by the National Congress of American Indians.
In conclusion, while there is no definitive proof of Cher’s Native American ancestry, she has consistently identified as such and has been recognized for her contributions to Native American communities. Her journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of identity and the importance of self-identification.
The History and Culture of the Cher Native American Tribe
The Cher Native American tribe, also known as the Cherokee, is a federally recognized tribe located in the southeastern United States. With a rich history and culture that spans centuries, the Cherokee people have faced numerous challenges and triumphs throughout their existence. This article will explore the history, culture, and traditions of the Cher Native American tribe.
Origins and Early History
The Cher people originated in the Appalachian Mountains and were one of the largest and most powerful tribes in the region. Their name, Cherokee, is derived from the Creek word “Tsalagi,” meaning “dwellers of the mountain country.” According to their oral history, the Cher emerged from the earth through a hole near present-day Chota, Tennessee.
European Contact and Removal
The arrival of European settlers in the 16th century had a profound impact on the Cher people. They established trade relations with the British and French but also faced increasing pressure from encroaching settlers. In the 1830s, the United States government forced the Cher to relocate west of the Mississippi River in a process known as the Trail of Tears. This forced removal resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and the disruption of their way of life.
Language and Spirituality
The Cher language belongs to the Iroquoian language family and is still spoken by many tribal members today. It is a tonal language, meaning that the pitch of the voice can change the meaning of a word. The Cher have a rich spiritual tradition that is based on a belief in a creator god and a pantheon of lesser deities. They practice a form of animism, believing that all things in nature have a spirit.
Arts and Crafts
The Cher are known for their skilled artisanship and produce a variety of traditional crafts, including pottery, basketry, and woodworking. Their pottery is characterized by its bold geometric designs and polished finish. Cher baskets are made from various natural materials, such as river cane and split oak, and are renowned for their intricate patterns.
Music and Dance
Music is an integral part of Cher culture and is used for both ceremonial and social purposes. They use a variety of traditional instruments, including drums, rattles, and flutes. Cher dances are often performed at social gatherings and are characterized by their rhythmic movements and colorful regalia.
Government and Leadership
The Cher are governed by a representative democracy and have a constitution that was adopted in 1827. The tribe’s highest governing body is the National Council, which is composed of elected representatives from each of the Cher communities. The Principal Chief serves as the head of the tribal government and represents the tribe in official matters.
Economic Development
The Cher economy is based on a diversity of industries, including tourism, manufacturing, and gaming. The tribe owns and operates several casinos and resorts, which generate significant revenue for the tribal government. They also have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and have established numerous small businesses and cooperatives.
Education and Healthcare
The Cher have a strong commitment to education and operate a number of schools and colleges within the tribal territory. They also have a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a range of medical services to tribal members.
Challenges and Triumphs
Throughout their history, the Cher people have faced numerous challenges, including assimilation, discrimination, and poverty. However, they have also shown incredible resilience and have made significant progress in overcoming these obstacles. Today, the Cher are a thriving and vibrant community that is committed to preserving their culture while embracing the opportunities of the future.
Conclusion
The Cher Native American tribe is a living testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout their history, they have managed to preserve their unique culture and traditions. Today, the Cher people are a vibrant and thriving community that is committed to building a brighter future for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where are the Cher Native American tribe located?
The Cher Native American tribe is located in the southeastern United States, primarily in Oklahoma, North Carolina, and Tennessee.
2. What is the population of the Cher tribe?
The Cher tribe has a population of over 300,000 enrolled members, making it one of the largest Native American tribes in the United States.
3. What is the Cher language called?
The Cher language is called Tsalagi, which means “dwellers of the mountain country.”
4. What are some of the traditional crafts of the Cher people?
The Cher people are known for their skilled artisanship and produce a variety of traditional crafts, including pottery, basketry, and woodworking.
5. What is the name of the Cher’s highest governing body?
The Cher’s highest governing body is the National Council, which is composed of elected representatives from each of the Cher communities.